Press Release: LULAC Hosts Vigil for Justice in Ohio with Participation from National Organizations.

Rise in hate crimes against Latinos spurs action.

July 23, 2009

Contact: Lizette Jenness Olmos
(202) 365-4553 mobile

Washington, DC – The League of United Latin American Citizens and numerous community organizations will be holding a Vigil for Justice to show support for Robert Cantu who was shamefully noosed on May 30, 2008. Robert, a Hispanic minor, was attacked by five individuals and placed in a noose around his neck while ethnic slurs were used.

“The League of United Latin American Citizens has organized a Vigil for Justice on Friday at noon on Public Square to “further expose this case and the growing trend of hate crimes in Ohio,” said LULAC National President Rosa Rosales. “We must not allow these cases to go unanswered.”

The rally has been receiving national attention with Ohio ranking 7th according to the Anti-Defamation League in hate crimes.
“We have more than 20 organizations participating and growing,” said Ohio State Director Jason Riveiro.  “The purpose of the rally is to support the efforts of the Cantu family to receive justice and bringing people from various backgrounds, religions and sexual preferences who are also being targeted. This issue is affecting the whole nation. We are asking the elected officials to make stronger legislation to address hate crimes and enforcement of hate crimes.”

Over 1 year after the crime was reported the Prosecutors Office charged only one individual with aggravated menacing (a first-degree misdemeanor when committed by an adult) and ethnic intimidation (a fifth-degree felony when committed by an adult). Surprisingly, the prosecutor only recommended 30 days in jail out of the possible maximum jail time of six months, Judge Ronk sentenced the assailant to only 10 days and a $100 fine plus court costs.

Robert’s case is one of numerous incidents throughout Ohio and the United States which indicate a growing trend of Hate Crimes against minorities. This Vigil for Justice will be an opportunity to peacefully come together and promote productive dialogue to reduce crimes against minorities.

The League of United Latin American Citizens advances the economic condition, educational attainment, political influence, health and civil rights of Hispanic Americans through community-based programs operating at more than 700 LULAC councils nationwide.

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